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As cruises see record demand for 2023, you may be considering booking ahead to get the best deal for your trip.
However, whether you are dreaming of an ocean voyage through the Caribbean or sailing your way down the Danube River, choosing the right cruise can often feel overwhelming.
Luckily, the travel and luggage storage experts at Bounce have compiled their top tips to help you plan your next cruise. Cody Candee, CEO, and Founder of Bounce comments:
1. Consider what you want from your cruise
With much of the world now accessible by cruise ship, it can be hard to pick exactly which destination is right for you. From the Bahamas to Barcelona, and Miami to Marseille, the world is your oyster when it comes to cruise destinations. Take the time to consider what type of experience you truly desire. Do you want to set sail on a family adrenaline-fueled experience, with waterslides and sporting events onboard? Or, do you fancy a slower pace, with opportunities to visit historical landmarks and learn something new?
2. Source holiday inspiration from TikTok
Social media search engines, such as TikTok, are a great free tool to source holiday inspiration. Cruises on TikTok are trending more than ever, with 5.7 billion views for videos with the hashtag ‘cruise’, alongside 5.2 million views for ‘cruiseholiday’. TikTok accounts such as @smartcruiser, share regular cruise reviews, and inspiration, helping to make your booking experience a little easier.
3. Determine your ideal dates and holiday length
Figuring out exactly how long your perfect cruise holiday will be can help whittle down your cruise line choices. Consider how many destinations you’d like to visit in the time you’re sailing. Short sailings might include one or two ports to visit, while longer sailings can include significantly more.
The time of year you choose to go on holiday can also be a vital part of the decision-making process. Seasonality is typically a big factor to consider when booking a cruise. If you’re sailing in the off-season months, such as January or February, your cruise fare may be considerably less than average for a location like the Mediterranean. However, December to April is peak season for Caribbean cruises.
4. Keep in mind your budget
It can be easy to spot a great deal on a cruise and think you’ve got yourself a bargain, but have you considered the cost you can expect to spend once you’ve set sail? One of the most appealing factors of a cruise is that once booked, most of your daily expenditure is taken out of your hands. However, ensure to check what is included as part of your cruise package. And, don’t forget to budget for additional costs, such as excursions, alternative dining options, and souvenirs. It’s important to factor in each expense to make sure it aligns with your budget.
